The Lew’s BB1 LFS 5.1:1 Baitcast Reel is a purpose-built cranking reel designed for anglers who want long casts, high line capacity, and a slow, controlled retrieve. The 5.1:1 gear ratio retrieves approximately 21 inches of line per handle turn, a speed Lew’s specifically highlights for fishing diving and deep-diving crankbaits.
The BB1 features a one-piece aluminum frame paired with a machined, double-anodized aluminum U-shaped spool. Its large-capacity spool holds 160 yards of 12-lb. line, making it particularly well suited for making the long casts needed to get deep-diving crankbaits to their maximum running depth.
Lew’s SmartPlus 6-Pin Centrifugal Braking System provides adjustable spool control throughout the cast. The system uses four spring-loaded brake pins along with two additional speed-control pins to balance casting distance with backlash control.
Key Features
- 5.1:1 gear ratio
- 21" line recovery per turn
- Designed especially for deep-diving crankbaits
- One-piece aluminum frame
- Machined, double-anodized aluminum large-capacity spool
- 10-bearing system
- SmartPlus 6-Pin centrifugal braking system
- Carbon composite drag system
- Bowed aluminum handle with SoftTouch paddle knobs
- Oversized line guide positioned to reduce line friction
- Quick-release sideplate for brake adjustments
- External lubrication port
- Line capacity: 160 yd./12 lb.
- Reel weight: 7.1 oz.
- Available as BB1 right-hand and BB1L left-hand models
Best Uses:
Deep-diving crankbaits, medium/deep crankbaits, cold-water cranking, and slow-rolling spinnerbaits. Lew’s notes that the 5.1:1 range is especially useful for deep cranking because an overly fast retrieve can work against achieving maximum crankbait depth.
